A South Oxhey charity has launched a bid to secure Euro cash to restore community pride in a nearby overgrown wasteland.

Ascend has teamed up with Farming For All to utilise a plot of allotments recently bought from Three Rivers District Council.

The aim is to use the land to teach horticultural skills, encouraging young people to get active and help the unemployed back into work.

Angie Green, of Ascend, said: "It's very exciting and is a real demonstration of what we want for the future.

"This can provide something for those who don't have their own gardens or those with disabilities.

"We can also help employment prospects by embedding literacy and numeracy skills in the activities and training within the allotments.

"We want to encourage community ownership of the land so that as many groups as possible can make the most of it."

However, start-up funding is needed for the 'Dig Deep' project and a bid was launched by European MP Richard Howitt at All Saints Church Centre on Friday.

Mr Howitt said: "There is a lot of concern at the moment about finding a job and the quality of what goes on here is great.

"It will be particularly useful to help get young people's careers back on track during this difficult period."

The project is expected to cost around £60,000 and whilst the bulk of this could come from EU money, it is hoped local business sponsorship can make up the rest.

Mr Howitt added: "I am appealing to any local businesses to get involved in this project as it will make a real difference to lives in this community."

Ascend acquired the lease for the plot of land last week and are keen to get started on the project as soon as possible.

The charity has already spoken to various community groups including Turning Point in order to boost promotion.

The lease has been secured for five years outlining the long-term nature of the project.

Christine Wyard, project manager, said: "Many people who train with us have their own goals, this is about helping them realise those goals.

"Three Rivers have given us great support by providing us with the land at low cost.

"Farming For All will be able to provide the training expertise that will help young people realise their potential."

It is hoped that the use of the allotments will encourage healthy living, sustainability and provide a basis of community pride for the local residents.